That's a very interesting thought. I happen to be fond of hamsters (and mice)--but that's another story.

I think, one of the reasons people behave badly is because they don't have confidence in elected officials to manage a crisis competently. I know that's true where I live (Long Island, NY, USA). I remember during Hurricane Sandy, the lack of services and leadership from civic authorities was astonishing. It was obvious that we were on our own. People were remarkably civil. The few merchants that had power allowed us to charge our phones whether or not we were customers. They allowed us to warm ourselves, briefly (there was a small snowstorm during the massive blackout). But there was no information, no communication from the power authority or the government. A few lucky people had generators, but gas was in such short supply that fueling the generators became a challenge. With the gas shortage, we didn't dare drive anywhere. So we were basically trapped.

This condition lasted for a daunting ten days. That may not sound bad, but with no idea about what was happening or when services would be restored, a kind of grim anxiety became the norm.

As we face this potential crisis and loss of services, I am prepared to once again be left to my own resources. I will try to do that, and at the same time be civil, thoughtful and generous.